ChangeMaker’s supporting its customers to become carbon zero by 2030

Meet ChangeMaker, one of the suppliers joining our Innovation Lab.

Could you tell us how you found out about the Innovation Lab and why you decided to pitch your idea?

We were invited to apply for the Lab by LMarks as we had taken part in previous pitch days and they were aware of our offer. We decided to pitch our idea because we recognised that by working with United Utilities we would further our goals of developing the build environment through a sustainable model, one that leaves a lighter footprint on our planet. 

In simple terms, could you please summarise what your product does?

We are  designers, consultants and manufacturers in 3D concrete printing. From the materials we use, to the designs and robotic process – everything is centred on our ability to leave a lighter footprint on our planet. 

What is the ultimate benefit your idea will bring to water customers in the North West?

Our product will create a sustainable alternative to the traditional design and manufacturing processes currently used across the water industry. It will give customers knowledge and comfort that the water they use, or the rapid responses used by the water industry and using more sustainable materials and processes. Our ultimate goal is to support our customers and our communities to become carbon zero by 2030. 

How are you hoping to develop your idea through the Innovation Lab?

The innovation lab will enable us to work directly with the UU team to undertake a concept appraisal that will identify the best place to apply our technology. We already have some great ideas and can see how this technology can integrate into the United Utilities supply chain.  However, the lab will help to prove our theory and select at least one product that can be designed, and 3D printed with a sustainable outcome. 

How important do you think programmes like the Innovation Lab are for developing ideas?

It is incredible hard for small businesses and start ups to gain the leverage they need to succeed with their innovation. Start-ups have limitless passion and drive, but very limited resources. Taking part in a Lab allows the start up to gain access to technical expertise, commercial opportunities and profile that could make the difference between success and failure.  I also believe that the start-ups deliver an equally valuable asset in their ability to bring an agile team to a corporate business, allowing for speed and creativity to open up innovation. Our focus has always been to lead with sustainability and social value, we are passionate about how this can influence corporate partners to evolve their supply chain to deliver even greater sustainable legacy.

What does innovation mean to you in three words?

Tech for good 

If you fast forward two years from now, where do you see your product?

Being used across the infrastructure sector to deliver greater sustainability as we build back greener!